Catholic Rural Life

The world is constantly telling us that new technological advancements are always beneficial to humanity. More progress. Less work. But is that always the case? What about technology applied in an agricultural setting? Is more mechanization always the answer? What if increased mechanization allows one to spend more quality time with loved ones and with the Lord? What if technology is actually pulling us away from those we love? These are some of the questions that CRL set off to explore this fall, talking to experts in theology as well as people who are discerning day-in and day-out what level of technology is right for their farm. We heard stories from an ag drone owner to a dairy with robot milkers to another family that uses a walk-behind plow. Professionals weighed in from opposite sides of the GMO spectrum. At the end of the day, everyone's outlook boiled down to one word: discernment. We hope these stories also add to your own discernment as you try to navigate the use of technology in your everyday life. May the Holy Spirit grant you wisdom in the process.